From World Premieres to Dance Education: Jayden & Chimene return to Transit

Transit Dance welcomes back two of its core faculty members, Chimene Steele-Prior and Jayden Hicks, both of whom had been on creative leave fulfilling professional contracts with some of the largest Australian dance companies.

Jayden Hicks, the Associate Director at Transit, had been working with the prestigious Australian Ballet as a creative assistant to Alice Topp for their new company work, Paragon. This outstanding production, which premiered as part of the Ballet Company's 60th Anniversary Season at the iconic Sydney Opera House, is now playing at the Melbourne Arts Centre and is a tribute to the company's rich heritage, strength, and evolution.

Jayden Hicks and Alice Tapp rehearsing Paragon with The Australian Ballet. Photo: Paul Malek

Boasting an impressive cast featuring including Simon Dow, Lucinda Dunn, Madeleine Eastoe, Steven Heathcote, Paul Knobloch, Sarah Lehmann, Kirsty Martin, David McAllister, Marilyn Rowe, Leanne Stojmenov, Jessica Thompson and Fiona Tonkin, Paragon unites past company members with the rising stars of the future. As a member of the creative team, Jayden Hicks' contribution added depth, perspective, and excellence to an already exceptional production. His work at the Australian Ballet is a reflection of his talent and dedication, and serves as an inspiration to future dance professionals who aspire to pursue excellence in the industry.

Chimene Steele-Prior onstage with her drone cast member during Lucie in the Sky.

Meanwhile, Chimene Steele-Prior who serves as the Course Coordinator of the contemporary course at Transit Dance, has recently completed her contract as a company dancer with the renowned Australasian Dance Collective. Under the skilled guidance of Amy Hollingsworth, she contributed to the world premiere of their extraordinary dance work, Lucy in the Sky. 

The groundbreaking production which premiered at Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) in May, fused technology and contemporary dance in a unique way. Including drones that interacted with the cast, this unique performance provided a one-of-a-kind experience for the audience. Chimene's work in this project showcases her exceptional talent and dedication as a dancer, particularly in such an innovative and technology-driven collaboration. Her experience with such works will undoubtedly enrich her teaching at Transit Dance, leading to inspiration for the next generation of contemporary dancers.

As a dance institution, Transit Dance is proud of both these artists and fully supports their creative ventures. Having faculty members who are still working in the industry is one of Transit Dance's strengths and gives a great contribution to the students' overall learning experience.

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